AFL device image v2
libre2 tslim device

Summary

The FreeStyle Libre 14-day is an all-in-one glucose sensor/transmitter that lasts for 14 days and only needs fingersticks as backup. . This sensor is a flash glucose monitor that requires scanning using a compatible smartphone app or a handheld reader. 

FDA approved for insertion on the back of the upper arm (ages 4 years and older).

 

MARD of 9.4%

This system is the first automated insulin delivery system that combines the Tandem t:slim x2 with the Freestyle Libre 2 Plus continuous glucose monitor (CGM) to automatically adjust insulin delivery in response to glucose trends. It's easy to use and allows bolus dosing directly from a compatible iOS or Android smartphone. 

Components

Freestyle Libre 14 Day : Sensor

Freestyle Libre 14 Day : Sensor

Sensor uses a thin, flexible filament inserted just under the skin to measure glucose levels every minute. Push-button applicator allows sensor to be placed on the body in one step.

Freestyle Libre 14 Day : Receiver

Freestyle Libre 14 Day : Receiver

Conveniently access glucose readings using a reader, smartphone, or both. Available for both iOS and Android devices.

Control IQ with Freestyle Libre  : Pump

Control IQ with Freestyle Libre : Pump

Touch screen pump connects tubing to a small patch called an infusion set that attaches to the body.

Control IQ with Freestyle Libre  : Sensor

Control IQ with Freestyle Libre : Sensor

Automatic applicator inserts sensor just under the surface of the skin and can be applied to many places on the body.

Control IQ with Freestyle Libre  : Controller

Control IQ with Freestyle Libre : Controller

t:slim pump receives CGM readings to automatically adjust basal insulin delivery via an infusion set. Compatible smartphone can be used to view and control insulin delivery using the t:connect app.

Control IQ with Freestyle Libre  : Infusion Set

Control IQ with Freestyle Libre : Infusion Set

An infusion set contains the thin plastic tubing that delivers insulin from the pump to the body.

Device Details

Overview

All-in-one glucose sensor/transmitter can be worn on the upper arm. 

This system automatically adjusts insulin levels from the Tandem t:slim X2 pump based on the Libre 2 Plus readings for more time in range.

Affordability and Access

$$$$
Widely covered. Provided by pharmacies. Price range; $0-$100/month. Often the cheapest and easier to access sensor.

$$$$
Widely covered for insulin-dependent type 1 and 2. Supplies for Pump and Sensor provided by DME suppliers. Price range; $5-$6,995 to start and $0-$200/month.

Data Monitoring Options

Yes
Automatic data transfer to LibreView each time Freestyle Libre 2 sensor is scanned. LibreView gives clinicians and users relevant glucose reports. Glooko and Tidepool can also be used to view data. 

Yes
The t:connect mobile app for the t:slim X2 pump wirelessly uploads pump and CGM data to the cloud-based t:connect web application.

Data View Options

Yes
Freestyle LibreLink app displays glucose readings directly on the patient's compatible smart device. 

Yes
Data can be viewed directly on the pump screen or on the t:connect mobile app (available for both iOS and Android devices).

Duration and Storage

14 Days
Sensors last 14 days and work between 50ºF - 113ºF. They are shipped in orders of 1-3 months at a time - which is 2-6 boxes at a time.

3-day pump 15-day sensor
Sensors last 14 days, and transmitters last 90 and work at 50ºF - 113ºF. Pump can be used for up to 72 hrs, battery life lasts five days with the use of CGM, and work between 40°F - 99°F. 

Vision / Auditory / Dexterity

YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed

NO text to speech
YES 
vibration alerts
A LOT
of dexterity needed

Patient Considerations

Active Lifestyle

Water-resistant for up to 3 feet deep for 30 minutes and light on the body, does not get in the way of activity. The reader must be within 1.5 inches of the sensor to scan it. 

Exercise Activity. Can manually increase target range to 140-160 mg/dl. Insulin decreases when Control IQ predicts CGM ≤140 mg/dl and increases when ≥ 160 mg/dl within 30 minutes. Autocorrections will still occur. Pump is not waterproof. CGM is waterproof. 

Avoiding Highs and Lows

Alerts are not available. High or low glucose alarms are not available. Trend arrows show the direction glucose is heading, with the rate of change. 

Auto basal and bolus insulin. Responds to CGM data by increasing or decreasing basal insulin delivery to prevent highs and lows and maintain a target blood glucose of 110 mg/dl. Auto-bolus is available once per hour to correct blood sugar above 180 mg/dl.

Comfort

Lowest profile sensor and smallest adhesive.

Low profile. Low profile/low maintenance sensor. Small tubed pump with the most infusion sets to pick from.

Easy Insulin Dosing

Scanned sensor readings can be used for dose adjustment.

Automatically adjusts dosing. Sensor integration allows for the pump to automatically adjust insulin doses. More customizable dosing than pens or syringes. Basal in 0.001 increments, bolus in 0.01 increments. Extended bolus available.

Easy to Use

Requires scanning. Self-application and manual scanning every 8-hours are required. Easy self-application.

Modern & no scanning required. Rechargeable and touchscreen pump. Sensor does not require scanning and sends minute-by-minute readings directly to the pump.

Fewer Fingersticks

Factory-calibrated sensor. Finger-sticks needed for backup only. 

Factory-calibrated sensor. Fingersticks needed for backup only.

Privacy

Somewhat discreet. Scanning feature makes it easy to monitor blood glucose levels discreetly. 

Discreet. Ability to check blood sugar on phone or watch. Ability to bolus on a compatible smartphone. Pump has tubing but can be clipped to clothing or placed in a pocket to be discreet when needed. CGM has a built-in hypoglycemia safety alarm that alerts users when glucose is below 55 mg/dl and is always on.